Gabriel I. Alonso, M.Photog.Cr.

The Power of the Classics
An advanced study and exploration into the Fine Art of Portraiture

This class is designed for the portraitist who seeks to attain a higher level of expertise and re-kindle their inspiration. The vehicle to get there is through the rediscovery of the vast knowledge contained in classical portraiture. From the masters of the renaissance to today’s industry leaders, portraiture has changed little – primarily the tools we use.

"How can you where you're going if you don't know where you've been" and “The more things change, the more the stay the same”. These are the two main thoughts for inspiration that will drive this week into a better understanding of our craft.



Topics of study will be:

• The importance of the science of photographic technology and the role it plays in the pursuit of excellence.
• An in-depth excursion into studio lighting and how it translates to environmental and outdoor lighting schemes.
• Posing the human body, gender specific styles and group posing will be explored in depth.
• Psychology and the immense role it plays into eliciting the emotions that will translate into pleasant expressions. Particularly important in children's portraiture.
• Historical perspective and the influence the work of the old masters has in what we do today.